Myanmar has launched a large-scale regulatory effort to dismantle online gambling and cyber fraud networks operating along its border regions, particularly in Myawaddy, KK Park, and Shwe Kokko. These areas have been central hubs for criminal groups running casino-style gaming systems, crypto-linked payment channels, and recruitment schemes that often involved trafficked workers. Many organisers are believed to be Chinese nationals, underscoring the transnational nature of these networks and the need for reinforced regional cooperation.
Recent operations resulted in the arrest of hundreds of foreign nationals and the demolition of numerous illegal buildings used for fraudulent operations. Authorities also seized equipment associated with unlicensed online gambling and telecom scams. Myanmar’s Ministry of Information stated that these actions are crucial to protecting both domestic and international stakeholders affected by such crimes. As enforcement increases, several groups have attempted to flee across borders, prompting tighter monitoring along the Thai-Myanmar frontier.
To address the cross-border dimension of these crimes, Myanmar, China, and Thailand are collaborating under a trilateral intelligence-sharing and security framework. This partnership aims to streamline countermeasures, strengthen border controls, and ensure the humane repatriation of trafficked individuals. Between 2023 and 2025, Myanmar repatriated over 68,000 illegal residents from 52 countries as part of its broader anti-fraud and anti-trafficking agenda.
Authorities emphasise that many criminal networks exploited political instability and remote infrastructure, converting isolated zones into operational hubs. Ongoing inspections and wider clearance operations are expected to continue as Myanmar seeks to prevent the re-establishment of these groups. The government is also encouraging public participation in reporting suspicious activity to support long-term efforts against illegal gambling and cybercrime.
